Charles Wysocki - Rally at Dandelion Mill

"Root beer came on the scene in the early 1870's when Charles E. Hires, a Philadelphia druggist, experimented with an 'herb tea' recipe given to him by a friend. Hires marketed his refined brew on a national basis and is still recognized as the 'father of root beer.' At my last count, there were 1,169 brands available.

This delicious soda had been my favorite since childhood. I've since swilled many different brands and none can come close to my Aunt Mary's recipe. Her luscious homemade concoction, served ice cold, was full-bodied and thickly foamed. In 'Rally at Dandelion Mill' folks are touting their special different tastes and this is my tribute to the good times of my childhood.

So, here's a tribute toast with root beer in hand to you and the many mugs of suds along your happy trails." - Charles Wysocki

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Charles Wysocki Biography

1928 - 2002

Some things about Charles Wysocki’s life can be anticipated. For instance, he collects Early American toys, tobacco tins, folk art, clocks, crockery and books. High on the list of favorite places are Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard . . . and all of New England.

Other things are a surprise - while he paints typically New England scenes, before his passing he lived in California. Yet one only has to look at his work to understand the person. Born in Detroit in 1928, Wysocki enjoyed an active and happy boyhood, which seems reflected in the spirit of his work. Since early childhood, he had no other desire than to be an artist.

After two years in the Army, Wysocki headed west to the Art Center School in Los Angeles, the city where he met his wife Liz, to whom he attributes much of his inspiration because she grew up on a farm. The aspects of her life that affected him were the basics: hard work, personal closeness and contentment with life's "little things."

Wysocki adds, "I hope my paintings revive pleasant thoughts of a bygone era and express a semblance of order and serenity that fills a need in this fast-changing world. I like to add a touch of humor into my work. I see life on the lighter side, in much simpler and more basic forms."

Wysocki's award-winning art is sought-after internationally and has been published in two books, American Celebration and Heartland.